Viagra (Sildenafil Citrate): Side Effects, Interactions, Warning, Dosage & Uses Patient Information DRUG DESCRIPTION VIAGRA (sildenafil citrate), an oral therapy for erectile dysfunction, is the citrate salt of sildenafil, a selective inhibitor of cyclic guanosine monophosphate (cGMP)-specific phosphodiesterase type 5 (PDE5). Sildenafil citrate is designated chemically as 1-[[3-(6,7-dihydro-1-methyl-7-oxo-3-propyl-1H-pyrazolo[4,3d]pyrimidin-5-yl)-4-ethoxyphenyl]sulfonyl]-4-methylpiperazine citrate and has the following structural formula: Sildenafil citrate is a white to off-white crystalline powder with a solubility of 3.5 mg/mL in water and a molecular weight of 666.7. VIAGRA is formulated as blue, film-coated rounded-diamond-shaped tablets equivalent to 25 mg, 50 mg and 100 mg of sildenafil for oral administration.

In addition to the active ingredient, sildenafil citrate, each tablet contains the following inactive ingredients: microcrystalline cellulose, anhydrous dibasic calcium phosphate, croscarmellose sodium, magnesium stearate, hypromellose, titanium dioxide, lactose, triacetin, and FD & C Blue #2 aluminum lake. What are the possible side effects of oral sildenafil (Revatio, Viagra)? Get emergency medical help if you have any of these signs of an allergic reaction: hives; difficulty breathing; swelling of your face, lips, tongue, or throat. During sexual activity, if you become dizzy or nauseated, or have pain, numbness, or tingling in your chest, arms, neck, or jaw, stop and call your doctor right away. You could be having a serious side effect of sildenafil. Stop using sildenafil and call your doctor at once if you have a serious side effect such as: sudden vision loss; Sildenafil: Indications, Side Effects, Warnings - Drugs.com Sildenafil Pricing & Coupons Sildenafil is used for: Treating high blood pressure in the lungs (pulmonary arterial hypertension [PAH]). It may also be used for other conditions as determined by your doctor.

Sildenafil is a phosphodiesterase type 5 (PDE5) inhibitor. It works by relaxing and dilating the blood vessels in the lungs. This lowers the blood pressure in the lungs and helps to improve your ability to exercise. Do NOT use sildenafil if: you are allergic to any ingredient in sildenafil you have pulmonary veno-occlusive disease (PVOD) you are taking nitrates (eg, isosorbide, nitroglycerin) in any form (eg, tablet, capsule, spray, patch, ointment) or nitroprusside you take another medicine that contains sildenafil, another PDE5 inhibitor (eg, tadalafil, vardenafil), or ritonavir you use certain recreational drugs called "poppers" (eg, amyl nitrate or nitrite, butyl nitrate or nitrite) Contact your doctor or health care provider right away if any of these apply to you. Slideshow Viagra: 11 Interesting Facts That You Can't Help But Be Amazed By Before using sildenafil: Some medical conditions may interact with sildenafil.

Tell your doctor or pharmacist if you have any medical conditions, especially if any of the following apply to you: if you are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or are breast-feeding if you are taking any prescription or nonprescription medicine, herbal preparation, or dietary supplement if you have allergies to medicines, foods, or other substances if you have a history of a prolonged (more than 4 hours) or painful erection (priapism) if you have a deformed penis (eg, cavernosal fibrosis, Peyronie disease), certain blood cell problems (eg, leukemia, multiple myeloma, sickle cell anemia), or any other condition that may increase the risk of a prolonged or painful erection (priapism) if you have a history of certain eye problems (eg, macular degeneration, optic neuropathy, retinitis pigmentosa, sudden vision loss in one or both eyes) or hearing problems (eg, ringing in the ears, decreased hearing, hearing loss) if you are dehydrated or have a history of liver or kidney problems, high or low blood pressure, stroke, ulcers, bleeding problems, heart problems (eg, aortic stenosis, angina, irregular heartbeat, heart attack, heart failure),

 blood vessel problems, or nervous system problems if you have pulmonary hypertension caused by sickle cell anemia if you are taking bosentan or medicine for erectile dysfunction (ED) Some MEDICINES MAY INTERACT with sildenafil.

Tell your health care provider if you are taking any other medicines, especially any of the following: Alpha-blockers (eg, doxazosin), medicines for high blood pressure, nitrates (eg, isosorbide, nitroglycerin), or nitroprusside because severe low blood pressure with dizziness, light-headedness, and fainting may occur Azole antifungals (eg, itraconazole, ketoconazole), H2 antagonists (eg, cimetidine), HIV protease inhibitors (eg, ritonavir, saquinavir), macrolide antibiotics (eg, erythromycin), or telithromycin because they may increase the risk of sildenafil's side effects Barbiturates (eg, phenobarbital), bosentan, carbamazepine, efavirenz, nevirapine, phenytoin, rifabutin, or rifampin because they may decrease sildenafil's effectiveness This may not be a complete list of all interactions that may occur. Ask your health care provider if sildenafil may interact with other medicines that you take. Check with your health care provider before you start, stop, or change the dose of any medicine.

How to use sildenafil: Use sildenafil as directed by your doctor. Check the label on the medicine for exact dosing instructions. Sildenafil is usually given as an injection at your doctor's office, hospital, or clinic. If you will be using sildenafil at home, a health care provider will teach you how to use it. Be sure you understand how to use sildenafil. Follow the procedures you are taught when you use a dose. Contact your health care provider if you have any questions. Do not use sildenafil if it contains particles, is cloudy or discolored, or if the vial is cracked or damaged. Use sildenafil on a regular schedule to get the most benefit from it. Use it at the same times each day. Continue to use sildenafil even if you feel well. Do not miss any doses. Do not suddenly stop using sildenafil or change your dose without talking to your doctor. Keep this product, as well as syringes and needles, out of the reach of children and away from pets. Do not reuse needles, syringes, or other materials. Ask your health care provider how to dispose of these materials after use. Follow all local rules for disposal. If you miss a dose of sildenafil, use it as soon as possible.

If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and go back to your regular dosing schedule. Do not use 2 doses at once. Ask your health care provider any questions you may have about how to use sildenafil. Important safety information: Sildenafil may cause drowsiness, dizziness, fainting, or blurred vision. These effects may be worse if you use it with alcohol or certain medicines. Use sildenafil with caution. Do not drive or perform other possibly unsafe tasks until you know how you react to it. Sildenafil may cause dizziness, light-headedness, or fainting; alcohol, hot weather, exercise, or fever may increase these effects. To prevent them, sit up or stand slowly, especially in the morning. Sit or lie down at the first sign of any of these effects. Patients with heart problems who use sildenafil may be at increased risk of heart-related side effects, including a heart attack or stroke. Symptoms of a heart attack may include chest, shoulder, neck, or jaw pain; numbness of an arm or leg; severe dizziness, headache, nausea, stomach pain, or vomiting; fainting; or vision changes.

Symptoms of a stroke may include confusion, vision or speech changes, one-sided weakness, or fainting. Contact your doctor or seek medical attention right away if you experience these symptoms. Sildenafil may rarely cause a prolonged (more than 4 hours) or painful erection. This could happen even when you are not having sex. If this is not treated right away, it could lead to permanent sexual problems, such as impotence. Contact your doctor right away if you have an erection that lasts more than 4 hours. If vomiting or diarrhea occurs, you will need to take care not to become dehydrated. Contact your doctor for instructions. Sildenafil may uncommonly cause mild, temporary vision changes (eg, blurred vision, sensitivity to light, blue/green color tint to vision). Contact your doctor if vision changes persist or are severe. Rarely, an eye problem called nonarteritic anterior ischemic optic neuropathy (NAION) has been reported in patients who took sildenafil. This may lead to decreased vision or permanent loss of vision in some cases. If you notice a sudden decrease in vision or loss of vision in one or both eyes, contact your doctor right away.

Sudden decreases in hearing and loss of hearing have been reported in some patients who have taken sildenafil. Sometimes they also noticed ringing in the ears or dizziness. If you notice a sudden decrease or loss of hearing, contact your doctor right away. Tell your doctor or dentist that you take sildenafil before you receive any medical or dental care, emergency care, or surgery. Do not use medicines or treatments for ED while you are using sildenafil without first checking with your doctor. Use sildenafil with caution in the ELDERLY; they may be more sensitive to its effects. Sildenafil is not approved for use in children. An increase in death has been seen in children as the dose of sildenafil gets higher. However, your child's doctor may decide the benefits of taking sildenafil may outweigh the risks. Talk with the doctor if you have questions about giving sildenafil to your child. PREGNANCY and BREAST-FEEDING: If you become pregnant, contact your doctor. You will need to discuss the benefits and risks of using sildenafil while you are pregnant. It is not known if this medicine is found in breast milk. If you are or will be breast-feeding while you use sildenafil, check with your doctor. Discuss any possible risks to your baby.

Possible side effects of sildenafil: All medicines may cause side effects, but many people have no, or minor, side effects. Check with your doctor if any of these most COMMON side effects persist or become bothersome: Diarrhea; dizziness; flushing; headache; mild pain, redness, or swelling at the injection site; muscle aches; nausea; nosebleed; sore throat; stuffy or runny nose; trouble sleeping; upset stomach; vomiting. Seek medical attention right away if any of these SEVERE side effects occur: Severe allergic reactions (rash; hives; itching; difficulty breathing; tightness in the chest; swelling of the mouth, face, lips, or tongue); burning, numbness, or tingling; chest pain; confusion; fainting; fast or irregular heartbeat; fever; memory loss; numbness of an arm or leg; one-sided weakness; painful or prolonged erection; persistent or severe pain, redness, or swelling at the injection site; ringing in the ears; seizure; severe or persistent dizziness or nosebleed; severe or persistent vision changes; shortness of breath; speech problems; sudden decrease or loss of hearing; sudden decrease or loss of vision in one or both eyes.

This is not a complete list of all side effects that may occur. If you have questions about side effects, contact your health care provider. Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. To report side effects to the appropriate agency, please read the Guide to Reporting Problems to FDA . If OVERDOSE is suspected: Contact 1-800-222-1222 (the American Association of Poison Control Centers), your local poison control center , or emergency room immediately. Proper storage of sildenafil: Sildenafil is usually handled and stored by a health care provider. If you are using sildenafil at home, store sildenafil as directed by your pharmacist or health care provider. Keep sildenafil out of the reach of children and away from pets. General information: If you have any questions about sildenafil, please talk with your doctor, pharmacist, or other health care provider. Sildenafil is to be used only by the patient for whom it is prescribed. Do not share it with other people. If your symptoms do not improve or if they become worse, check with your doctor. Check with your pharmacist about how to dispose of unused medicine. This information should not be used to decide whether or not to take sildenafil or any other medicine.

Only your health care provider has the knowledge and training to decide which medicines are right for you. This information does not endorse any medicine as safe, effective, or approved for treating any patient or health condition. This is only a brief summary of general information about sildenafil. It does NOT include all information about the possible uses, directions, warnings, precautions, interactions, adverse effects, or risks that may apply to sildenafil. This information is not specific medical advice and does not replace information you receive from your health care provider. You must talk with your healthcare provider for complete information about the risks and benefits of using sildenafil. Review Date: January 6, 2017 Disclaimer: This information should not be used to decide whether or not to take this medicine or any other medicine. Only your health care provider has the knowledge and training to decide which medicines are right for you. This information does not endorse any medicine as safe, effective, or approved for treating any patient or health condition. This is only a brief summary of general information about this medicine. It does NOT include all information about the possible uses, directions, warnings, precautions, interactions, adverse effects, or risks that may apply to this medicine.

This information is not specific medical advice and does not replace information you receive from your health care provider. You must talk with your healthcare provider for complete information about the risks and benefits of using this medicine. Viagra (Sildenafil Citrate) Patient Information: Side Effects and Drug Images at RxList diamond, blue, imprinted with Pfizer, VGR 50 What are the possible side effects of oral sildenafil (Viagra)? Get emergency medical help if you have any of these signs of an allergic reaction: hives; difficulty breathing; swelling of your face, lips, tongue, or throat. During sexual activity, if you become dizzy or nauseated, or have pain, numbness, or tingling in your chest, arms, neck, or jaw, stop and call your doctor right away. You could be having a serious side effect of sildenafil. Stop using sildenafil and call your doctor at once if you have a serious side effect such as: sudden vision loss; ringing in your ears, or sudden hearing loss; chest pain or heavy feeling, pain spreading to the arm or shoulder, nausea, sweating, general ill feeling; irregular heartbeat; upset stomach; or back pain. This is not a complete list of side effects and others may occur.

Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088. Learn More » What is the most important information I should know about oral sildenafil (Viagra)? Do not take sildenafil if you are also using a nitrate drug for chest pain or heart problems. This includes nitroglycerin (Nitrostat, Nitrolingual, Nitro-Dur, Nitro-Bid, and others), isosorbide dinitrate (Dilatrate-SR, Isordil, Sorbitrate), and isosorbide mononitrate (Imdur, ISMO, Monoket). Nitrates are also found in some recreational drugs such as amyl nitrate or nitrite ("poppers"). Taking sildenafil with a nitrate medicine can cause a sudden and serious decrease in blood pressure. During sexual activity, if you become dizzy or nauseated, or have pain, numbness, or tingling in your chest, arms, neck, or jaw, stop and call your doctor right away. You could be having a serious side effect of sildenafil. Do not take sildenafil more than once a day. Allow 24 hours to pass between doses.

Do not take Viagra while also taking Revatio, unless your doctor tells you to. Contact your doctor or seek emergency medical attention if your erection is painful or lasts longer than 4 hours. A prolonged erection (priapism) can damage the penis. Sildenafil can decrease blood flow to the optic nerve of the eye, causing sudden vision loss. This has occurred in a small number of people taking sildenafil, most of whom also had heart disease, diabetes, high blood pressure, high cholesterol, or certain pre-existing eye problems, and in those who smoke or are over 50 years old. It is not clear whether sildenafil is the actual cause of vision loss. Stop using sildenafil and get emergency medical help if you have sudden vision loss. Side Effects Centers ED Treatment | VIAGRA® (sildenafil citrate) | Safety Info IMPORTANT SAFETY INFORMATION Do not take VIAGRA (sildenafil citrate) if you: take any medicines called nitrates, often prescribed for chest pain, or guanylate cyclase stimulators like Adempas (riociguat) for pulmonary hypertension.

Your blood pressure could drop to an unsafe level are allergic to sildenafil, as contained in VIAGRA and REVATIO, or any of the ingredients in VIAGRA Discuss your health with your doctor to ensure that you are healthy enough for sex. If you experience chest pain, dizziness, or nausea during sex, seek immediate medical help VIAGRA can cause serious side effects. Rarely reported side effects include: an erection that will not go away (priapism). If you have an erection that lasts more than 4 hours, get medical help right away. If it is not treated right away, priapism can permanently damage your penis sudden vision loss in one or both eyes. Sudden vision loss in one or both eyes can be a sign of a serious eye problem called non-arteritic anterior ischemic optic neuropathy (NAION). Stop taking VIAGRA and call your healthcare provider right away if you have any sudden vision loss sudden hearing decrease or hearing loss. Some people may also have ringing in their ears (tinnitus) or dizziness.

If you have these symptoms, stop taking VIAGRA and contact a doctor right away Before you take VIAGRA, tell your healthcare provider if you: have or have had heart problems such as a heart attack, irregular heartbeat, angina, chest pain, narrowing of the aortic valve, or heart failure have had heart surgery within the last 6 months have pulmonary hypertension other medicines that treat high blood pressure other medicines or treatments for ED VIAGRA contains sildenafil, which is the same medicine found in another drug called REVATIO. REVATIO is used to treat a rare disease called pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH). VIAGRA should not be used with REVATIO or with other PAH treatments containing sildenafil or any other PDE5 inhibitors (such as Adcirca [tadalafil]) VIAGRA does not protect against sexually transmitted diseases, including HIV. The most common side effects of VIAGRA: headache; flushing; upset stomach; abnormal vision, such as changes in color vision (such as having a blue color tinge) and blurred vision; stuffy or runny nose; back pain; muscle pain; nausea; dizziness; rash. INDICATION VIAGRA (sildenafil citrate) is prescription medicine used to treat erectile dysfunction (ED).

VIAGRA is not for women or children. Please see full prescribing information for VIAGRA (25 mg, 50 mg, 100 mg) tablets. Patients should always ask their doctors for medical advice about adverse events. You may report an adverse event related to Pfizer products by calling 1-800-438-1985 (U.S. only). If you prefer, you may contact the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) directly. The FDA has established a reporting service known as MedWatch where healthcare professionals and consumers can report serious problems they suspect may be associated with the drugs and medical devices they prescribe, dispense, or use. Visit MedWatch or call 1-800-FDA-1088. Call 1-888-4-VIAGRA (1-888-484-2472), 9 AM to 7 PM Eastern Time, Monday through Friday for more information. **Savings of up to $200 per prescription. Limit 12 prescriptions per year with a minimum of 6 pills per prescription is required. Total maximum savings for this offer are $2,400 per year.

This is not health insurance. This offer is available only at participating pharmacies. No membership fees. sildenafil, Viagra: Generic Facts, Side Effects, Dosage Pharmacy Author: Omudhome Ogbru, PharmD Omudhome Ogbru, PharmD Dr. Ogbru received his Doctorate in Pharmacy from the University of the Pacific School of Pharmacy in 1995. He completed a Pharmacy Practice Residency at the University of Arizona/University Medical Center in 1996. He was a Professor of Pharmacy Practice and a Regional Clerkship Coordinator for the University of the Pacific School of Pharmacy from 1996-99. Medical and Pharmacy Editor: Jay W. Marks, MD Jay W. Marks, MD Jay W. Marks, MD, is a board-certified internist and gastroenterologist. He graduated from Yale University School of Medicine and trained in internal medicine and gastroenterology at UCLA/Cedars-Sinai Medical Center in Los Angeles. avanafil ( Stendra ). It has been estimated that impotence affects 140 million men worldwide. Over half of all men with impotence are thought to have some physical (medical) cause. The remainder are believed to have psychogenic causes of impotence.

Medical causes of impotence include diabetes and circulatory , neurological, or urological conditions. Penile erection is caused by the engorgement of the penis with blood. This engorgement occurs when the blood vessels delivering blood to the penis increase the delivery of blood and the blood vessels carrying blood away from the penis decrease the removal of blood. Under normal conditions, sexual stimulation leads to the production and release of nitric oxide in the penis. Nitric oxide then activates the enzyme, guanylate cyclase, which causes the production of cyclic guanosine monophosphate (cGMP). It is the cGMP that is primarily responsible for the erection by affecting the amount of blood that the blood vessels deliver and remove from the penis. Viagra inhibits an enzyme called phosphodiesterase-5 (PDE5) which destroys the cGMP. Thus, Viagra prevents the destruction of cGMP and allows cGMP to accumulate and persist longer. The longer cGMP persists, the more prolonged the engorgement of the penis. The FDA approved Viagra in March 1998. PRESCRIBED FOR: Viagra is used for the treatment of erectile dysfunction of either physical or psychogenic cause, and for pulmonary arterial hypertension .

Medically Reviewed by a Doctor on 8/6/2015 Sildenafil - National Library of Medicine - PubMed Health Sildenafil for pulmonary hypertension in neonates Some babies develop persistent pulmonary hypertension of the neonate (PPHN), a condition where the pressure in the blood vessels that allows blood to flow to the lungs remains abnormally high. Persistent high pressure in these vessels leads to less blood flow to the lungs and therefore less oxygen reaching the blood and all organs of the body. Sildenafil may cause these vessels to relax and allow for improved blood flow and improved oxygen delivery to all organs. This treatment is especially useful in the settings where other treatment approaches are not available. However, in resourceful environment, further studies are needed to compare sildenafil with existing treatment for effect and safety. See all (84) Summaries for consumers Treatments with Viagra (Sildenafil citrate) for erectile dysfunction in male patients aged more than 18 years old with multiple sclerosis Erectile dysfunction (ED) is a common sexual disease in male patients with multiple sclerosis (MS). Viagra (Sildenafil citrate) is considered as an effective drug for the treatment of ED in the general population, but it has not been systematically reviewed in patients with MS.

Sildenafil for pulmonary hypertension in neonates Some babies develop persistent pulmonary hypertension of the neonate (PPHN), a condition where the pressure in the blood vessels that allows blood to flow to the lungs remains abnormally high. Persistent high pressure in these vessels leads to less blood flow to the lungs and therefore less oxygen reaching the blood and all organs of the body. Sildenafil may cause these vessels to relax and allow for improved blood flow and improved oxygen delivery to all organs. This treatment is especially useful in the settings where other treatment approaches are not available. However, in resourceful environment, further studies are needed to compare sildenafil with existing treatment for effect and safety. Phosphodiesterase 5 (sildenafil) inhibitors for pulmonary hypertension Pulmonary hypertension (PH) is high blood pressure in the lung circulation. It can occur without a known cause, or it can be caused by another lung disease or be secondary to abnormalities in the left side of the heart. The review sought to determine whether there was evidence that sildenafil (also known as Viagra), a drug which opens up the arteries and increases the flow of blood, could decrease pulmonary artery blood pressure and alleviate symptoms of PH. A limited number of studies of short term i duration indicated that the drug can open up the arteries.

One small longer‐term study found some favourable effects in terms of symptoms, but in the absence of longer term outcomes, we could not establish whether this meant that the people given the drug felt that their levels of daily activity were better. Future studies should be longer in duration, and should measure the impact of treatment on daily activities, mortality, quality of life and exercise capacity. Sildenafil citrate - definition of sildenafil citrate by The Free Dictionary Sildenafil citrate - definition of sildenafil citrate by The Free Dictionary Related to sildenafil citrate: Generic viagra sil•den′a•fil cit′rate (sɪlˈdɛn ə fɪl) n. a white crystalline powder, C22H30N6O4S, that temporarily normalizes erectile function of the penis by blocking an enzyme known to inhibit the production of a chemical that causes erections: used in the form of a pill to treat impotence. ThesaurusAntonymsRelated WordsSynonymsLegend: Want to thank TFD for its existence? Tell a friend about us , add a link to this page, or visit the webmaster's page for free fun content .

Link to this page: Viagra may also help woman may help curb menstrual cramping 18) investigated whether sildenafil citrate can inhibit the functional and structural changes of the detrusor in relation to BOO in a murine model. SSSSHHHH... Health; Your intimate problems More than 120 alternative versions of the drug - sold under its chemical name sildenafil citrate and made by companies in countries including India, South Africa, Germany and Greece - will hit the shelves, with some costing as little as 85p per pill. DirectPeptides.com: The Peptide and Liquid Research Chemical Supplier on the Web Sildenafil citrate is widely used as a primary pharmacological treatment of erectile dysfunction in men with and without underlying cardiovascular disease (3).

Cannabis smoking and sildenafil citrate induced acute coronary syndrome in a patient with myocardial bridge/Miyokart koprusu olan bir hastada esrar icilmesi ve sildenafil sitrat ile induklenen akut koroner sendrom Also found in the mail were the acne drug isotretinoin, which is available in the United States only through a risk management distribution program; sildenafil citrate (Viagra); and the antiviral oseltamivir (Tamiflu), which is often sold as a "generic," though there is no such approved U. Sildenafil: MedlinePlus Drug Information Brand names Why is this medication prescribed? Sildenafil (Viagra) is used to treat erectile dysfunction (impotence; inability to get or keep an erection) in men. Sildenafil (Revatio) is used to improve the ability to exercise in adults with pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH; high blood pressure in the vessels carrying blood to the lungs, causing shortness of breath, dizziness, and tiredness). Children should not usually take sildenafil, but in some cases, a doctor may decide that sildenafil (Revatio) is the best medication to treat a child's condition.

Sildenafil is in a class of medications called phosphodiesterase (PDE) inhibitors. Sildenafil treats erectile dysfunction by increasing blood flow to the penis during sexual stimulation. This increased blood flow can cause an erection. Sildenafil treats PAH by relaxing the blood vessels in the lungs to allow blood to flow easily. If you are taking sildenafil to treat erectile dysfunction, you should know that it does not cure erectile dysfunction or increase sexual desire. Sildenafil does not prevent pregnancy or the spread of sexually transmitted diseases such as human immunodeficiency virus (HIV). How should this medicine be used? Sildenafil comes as a tablet and suspension (liquid; Revatio only) to take by mouth. If you are taking sildenafil to treat erectile dysfunction, follow your doctor's directions and the guidelines in this paragraph. Take sildenafil as needed before sexual activity. The best time to take sildenafil is about 1 hour before sexual activity, but you can take the medication any time from 4 hours to 30 minutes before sexual activity. Sildenafil usually should not be taken more than once every 24 hours. If you have certain health conditions or are taking certain medications, your doctor may tell you to take sildenafil less often. You can take sildenafil with or without food.

However, if you take sildenafil with a high-fat meal, it will take longer for the medication to start to work. If you are taking sildenafil to treat PAH, follow your doctor's directions and the guidelines in this paragraph. You will probably take sildenafil three times a day with or without food. Take sildenafil at around the same times every day, and space your doses about 4 to 6 hours apart. Follow the directions on your prescription label carefully, and ask your doctor or pharmacist to explain any part you do not understand. Take sildenafil exactly as directed. Do not take more or less of it or take it more often than prescribed by your doctor. Shake the liquid well for 10 seconds before each use to mix the medication evenly. Use the oral syringe provided with your medication to measure and take your dose. Follow the manufacturer's directions to use and clean the oral syringe. Do not mix the liquid with other medications or add anything to flavor the medication. If you are taking sildenafil for erectile dysfunction, your doctor will probably start you on an average dose of sildenafil and increase or decrease your dose depending on your response to the medication. Tell your doctor if sildenafil is not working well or if you are experiencing side effects.

If you are taking sildenafil for PAH, you should know that sildenafil controls PAH but does not cure it. Continue to take sildenafil even if you feel well. Do not stop taking sildenafil without talking to your doctor. Ask your pharmacist or doctor for a copy of the manufacturer's information for the patient. Other uses for this medicine This medication is sometimes prescribed for other uses; ask your doctor or pharmacist for more information. What special precautions should I follow? Before taking sildenafil, tell your doctor and pharmacist if you are allergic to sildenafil, any other medications, or any of the ingredients in sildenafil products. Ask your pharmacist for a list of the ingredients. do not take sildenafil if you are taking or have recently taken riociguat (Adempas) or nitrates (medications for chest pain) such as isosorbide dinitrate (Isordil), isosorbide mononitrate (Monoket), and nitroglycerin (Minitran, Nitro-Dur, Nitromist, Nitrostat, others). Nitrates come as tablets, sublingual (under the tongue) tablets, sprays, patches, pastes, and ointments.

Ask your doctor if you are not sure whether any of your medications contain nitrates. do not take street drugs containing nitrates such as amyl nitrate and butyl nitrate ('poppers') while taking sildenafil. tell your doctor and pharmacist what prescription and nonprescription medications, vitamins, and nutritional supplements you are taking or plan to take.

Be sure to mention any of the following: alpha blockers such as alfuzosin (Uroxatral), doxazosin (Cardura), prazosin (Minipress), tamsulosin (Flomax, in Jalyn), and terazosin; amlodipine (Norvasc, in Amturnide, in Tekamlo); certain antifungals such as itraconazole (Onmel, Sporanox) and ketoconazole (Nizoral); anticoagulants ('blood thinners') such as warfarin (Coumadin, Jantoven); certain barbiturates such as butalbital (in Butapap, in Fioricet, in Fiorinal, others) and secobarbital (Seconal); beta blockers such as atenolol (Tenormin, in Tenoretic), labetalol (Trandate), metoprolol (Lopressor, Toprol XL, in Dutoprol), nadolol (Corgard, in Corzide), and propranolol (Hemangeol, Inderal LA, InnoPran); bosentan (Tracleer

); cimetidine ; efavirenz (Sustiva, in Atripla); erythromycin (E.E.S., E-Mycin, Erythrocin); HIV protease inhibitors including amprenavir (Agenerase; no longer available in the U.S.), atazanavir (Reyataz, in Evotaz), darunavir (Prezista, in Prezcobix), fosamprenavir (Lexiva), indinavir (Crixivan), lopinavir (in Kaletra), nelfinavir (Viracept), ritonavir (Norvir, in Kaletra), saquinavir (Invirase), and tipranavir (Aptivus); nevirapine (Viramune); other medications or devices to treat erectile dysfunction; medications for high blood pressure; certain medications for seizures including carbamazepine (Carbatrol, Epitol, Tegretol, others), phenobarbital, and phenytoin (Dilantin, Phenytek); rifabutin (Mycobutin); and rifampin (Rifadin, Rimactane, in Rif

amate, in Rifater).

Your doctor may need to change the doses of your medications or monitor you carefully for side effects. Many other medications may also interact with sildenafil, so be sure to tell your doctor about all the medications you are taking, even those that do not appear on this list. tell your doctor what herbal products you are taking or plan to take, especially St. John's wort. tell your doctor if you smoke, if you have ever had an erection that lasted for several hours, and if you have recently lost a large amount of body fluids (dehydration). This can happen if you are sick with fever, diarrhea, or vomiting; sweat a lot; or do not drink enough liquids.

Also tell your doctor if you have or have ever had pulmonary veno-occlusive disease (PVOD; blockage of veins in the lungs); a stomach ulcer; heart, kidney, or liver disease; a heart attack; an irregular heartbeat; a stroke; chest pain; high or low blood pressure; high cholesterol; a bleeding disorder; blood circulation problems;blood cell problems such as sickle cell anemia (a disease of the red blood cells), multiple myeloma (cancer of the plasma cells), or leukemia (cancer of the white blood cells); conditions affecting the shape of the penis (e.g., angulation, cavernosal fibrosis, or Peyronie's disease); or diabetes. Also tell your doctor if you or any of your family members have or have ever had an eye disease such as retinitis pigmentosa (an inherited eye condition that causes loss of vision) or if you have ever had sudden severe vision loss, especially if you were told that the vision loss was caused by a blockage of blood flow to the nerves that help you see. if you are a woman and you are taking sildenafil to treat PAH, tell your doctor if you are pregnant, plan to become pregnant, or are breastfeeding.

If you become pregnant while taking sildenafil, call your doctor. if you are having surgery, including dental surgery, tell your doctor or dentist that you are taking sildenafil. if you are taking sildenafil to treat erectile dysfunction, tell your doctor if you have ever been advised by a healthcare professional to avoid sexual activity for medical reasons or if you have ever experienced chest pain during sexual activity. Sexual activity may be a strain on your heart, especially if you have heart disease. If you experience chest pain, dizziness, or nausea during sexual activity, call your doctor immediately and avoid sexual activity until your doctor tells you otherwise. tell all your healthcare providers that you are taking sildenafil. If you ever need emergency medical treatment for a heart problem, the healthcare providers who treat you will need to know when you last took sildenafil. What special dietary instructions should I follow? Talk to your doctor about eating grapefruit and drinking grapefruit juice while taking this medicine. What should I do if I forget a dose? If you are taking sildenafil for erectile dysfunction, you are unlikely to miss a dose since this medication is taken as needed, not on a regular dosing schedule. If you are taking sildenafil for PAH, take the missed dose as soon as you remember it.

However, if it is almost time for the next dose, skip the missed dose and continue your regular dosing schedule. Do not take a double dose to make up for a missed one. What side effects can this medication cause? Sildenafil may cause side effects. Tell your doctor if any of these symptoms are severe or do not go away: headache erection that is painful or lasts longer than 4 hours itching or burning during urination rash Some patients experienced a sudden loss of some or all of their vision after they took sildenafil or other medications that are similar to sildenafil. The vision loss was permanent in some cases. It is not known if the vision loss was caused by the medication. If you experience a sudden loss of vision while you are taking sildenafil, call your doctor immediately. Do not take any more doses of sildenafil or similar medications such as tadalafil (Cialis) or vardenafil (Levitra) until you talk to your doctor. There have been reports of heart attack, stroke, irregular heartbeat, bleeding in the brain or lungs, high blood pressure, and sudden death in men who took sildenafil for erectile dysfunction. Most, but not all, of these people had heart problems before taking sildenafil.

It is not known whether these events were caused by sildenafil, sexual activity, heart disease, or a combination of these and other causes.Talk to your doctor about the risks of taking sildenafil. Some patients experienced a sudden decrease or loss of hearing after they took sildenafil or other medications that are similar to sildenafil. The hearing loss usually involved only one ear and did not always improve when the medication was stopped. It is not known if the hearing loss was caused by the medication. If you experience a sudden loss of hearing, sometimes with ringing in the ears or dizziness, while you are taking sildenafil, call your doctor immediately. If you are taking sildenafil (Viagra) for erectile dysfunction, do not take any more doses of sildenafil (Viagra) or similar medications such as tadalafil (Cialis) or vardenafil (Levitra) until you talk to your doctor. If you are taking sildenafil (Revatio) for PAH, do not stop taking your medication until you talk to your doctor. Sildenafil may cause other side effects. Call your doctor if you have any unusual problems while you are taking this medication.

If you experience a serious side effect, you or your doctor may send a report to the Food and Drug Administration's (FDA) MedWatch Adverse Event Reporting program online ( ) or by phone (1-800-332-1088). What should I know about storage and disposal of this medication? Keep this medication in the container it came in, tightly closed, and out of reach of children. Store the tablets at room temperature and away from excess heat and moisture (not in the bathroom). Store the suspension at room temperature or in a refrigerator, but do not freeze it. Throw away any unused suspension after 60 days. Throw away any medication that is outdated or no longer needed. Talk to your pharmacist about the proper disposal of your medication. In case of emergency/overdose In case of overdose, call your local poison control center at 1-800-222-1222. If the victim has collapsed or is not breathing, call local emergency services at 911. What other information should I know? Keep all appointments with your doctor. Do not let anyone else take your medication. Ask your pharmacist any questions you have about refilling your prescription.

It is important for you to keep a written list of all of the prescription and nonprescription (over-the-counter) medicines you are taking, as well as any products such as vitamins, minerals, or other dietary supplements. You should bring this list with you each time you visit a doctor or if you are admitted to a hospital. It is also important information to carry with you in case of emergencies. Viagra - The Periodic Table of Videos does Molecules Professor Poliakoff discusses the properties of Sildenafil citrate, better known as Viagra. Sildenafil: Usage, Dosage & Side Effects - Drugs.com Sildenafil Generic Name: sildenafil (oral) (sil DEN a fil) Brand Names: Revatio, Viagra Pricing & Coupons What is sildenafil? Sildenafil relaxes muscles found in the walls of blood vessels and increases blood flow to particular areas of the body. Sildenafil under the name Viagra is used to treat erectile dysfunction (impotence) in men. Another brand of sildenafil is Revatio, which is used to treat pulmonary arterial hypertension and improve exercise capacity in men and women. Do not take Viagra while also taking Revatio, unless your doctor tells you to.

Important information Do not take sildenafil if you are also using a nitrate drug for chest pain or heart problems, including nitroglycerin, isosorbide dinitrate, isosorbide mononitrate, and some recreational drugs such as "poppers". Taking sildenafil with a nitrate medicine can cause a sudden and serious decrease in blood pressure. Slideshow Looking Ahead: Pharma Projections for 2016 - And Beyond Some medicines can cause unwanted or dangerous effects when used with sildenafil. Tell your doctor about all your current medicines, especially riociguat (Adempas). Contact your doctor or seek emergency medical attention if your erection is painful or lasts longer than 4 hours. A prolonged erection (priapism) can damage the penis. Stop using sildenafil and get emergency medical help if you have sudden vision loss. Before taking this medicine You should not use sildenafil if you are allergic to it, or: if you take other medicines to treat pulmonary arterial hypertension, such as riociguat (Adempas). Do not take sildenafil if you are also using a nitrate drug for chest pain or heart problems. This includes nitroglycerin, isosorbide dinitrate, and isosorbide mononitrate.

Nitrates are also found in some recreational drugs such as amyl nitrate or nitrite ("poppers"). Taking sildenafil with a nitrate medicine can cause a sudden and serious decrease in blood pressure. To make sure sildenafil is safe for you, tell your doctor about your other medical conditions, especially: heart disease or heart rhythm problems, coronary artery disease; a recent history (in the past 6 months) of a heart attack, stroke, or congestive heart failure; high or low blood pressure; liver or kidney disease; retinitis pigmentosa (an inherited condition of the eye); a physical deformity of the penis (such as Peyronie's disease); or if you have been told you should not have sexual intercourse for health reasons. Sildenafil can decrease blood flow to the optic nerve of the eye, causing sudden vision loss. This has occurred in a small number of people taking sildenafil, most of whom also had heart disease, diabetes, high blood pressure, high cholesterol, or certain pre-existing eye problems, and in those who smoked or were over 50 years old. It is not clear whether sildenafil is the actual cause of vision loss. This medicine is not expected to harm an unborn baby.

Tell your doctor if you are pregnant or plan to become pregnant. It is not known whether sildenafil passes into breast milk or if it could harm a nursing baby. Tell your doctor if you are breast-feeding a baby. Do not give sildenafil to anyone under 18 years old without medical advice. How should I take sildenafil? Take sildenafil exactly as it was prescribed for you Follow all directions on your prescription label. Do not take this medicine in larger or smaller amounts or for longer than recommended. Revatio is usually taken three times each day, about 4 to 6 hours apart. Viagra is usually taken only when needed, 30 minutes to 1 hour before sexual activity. You may take it up to 4 hours before sexual activity. Do not take Viagra more than once per day. Shake the oral suspension (liquid) well just before you measure a dose. Measure liquid medicine with the dosing syringe provided, or with a special dose-measuring spoon or medicine cup. If you do not have a dose-measuring device, ask your pharmacist for one. Viagra can help you have an erection when sexual stimulation occurs. An erection will not occur just by taking a pill. Follow your doctor's instructions.

During sexual activity, if you become dizzy or nauseated, or have pain, numbness, or tingling in your chest, arms, neck, or jaw, stop and call your doctor right away. You could be having a serious side effect of sildenafil. Store at room temperature away from moisture and heat. What happens if I miss a dose? Since Viagra is used as needed, you are not likely to miss a dose. If you miss a dose of Revatio, take the missed dose as soon as you remember. Skip the missed dose if it is almost time for your next scheduled dose. Do not take extra medicine to make up the missed dose. What happens if I overdose? Seek emergency medical attention or call the Poison Help line at 1-800-222-1222. What should I avoid while taking sildenafil? Drinking alcohol with this medicine can cause side effects. Grapefruit and grapefruit juice may interact with sildenafil and lead to unwanted side effects. Avoid the use of grapefruit products while taking sildenafil. Avoid using any other medicines to treat impotence, such as alprostadil or yohimbine, without first talking to your doctor.

Sildenafil side effects Get emergency medical help if you have signs of an allergic reaction to sildenafil: hives; difficulty breathing; swelling of your face, lips, tongue, or throat. Stop taking sildenafil and get emergency medical help if you have: heart attack symptoms - chest pain or pressure, pain spreading to your jaw or shoulder, nausea, sweating; vision changes or sudden vision loss; or erection is painful or lasts longer than 4 hours (prolonged erection can damage the penis). Call your doctor at once if you have: ringing in your ears, or sudden hearing loss; irregular heartbeat; swelling in your hands, ankles, or feet; shortness of breath; muscle pain, back pain; or upset stomach. This is not a complete list of side effects and others may occur. Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.

Sildenafil dosing information Usual Adult Dose of Sildenafil for Erectile Dysfunction: Initial dose: 50 mg orally once a day, as needed, 1 hour prior to sexual activity Maintenance: 25 to 100 mg orally once a day, as needed, 1 hour prior to sexual activity Comments: This drug may be taken anywhere from 30 minutes to 4 hours before sexual activity. Use: Treatment of erectile dysfunction Usual Adult Dose for Pulmonary Hypertension: Revatio (R): Oral: -Initial dose: 5 or 20 mg orally three times a day, 4 to 6 hours apart -Maximum dose: 20 mg orally three times a day Injection:

Question: Sildenafil citrate is better known by what name?
Answer: Viagra